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Thanksgiving is just around the corner, and if you have braces, you might be wondering what’s safe to eat. Don’t worry—you can enjoy all the deliciousness of the holiday without damaging your orthodontic treatment. Here’s your go-to guide for a braces-friendly Thanksgiving. Braces-Friendly Foods to Savor Thanksgiving is all about indulgence, and there’s no reason braces should stop you from enjoying the feast. Here are some safe, tasty options: Tender Turkey: Turkey is the centerpiece of Thanksgiving and perfectly fine for braces—just make sure it’s juicy and cut into small pieces for easy chewing. Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Soft and smooth, these are a braces-friendly favorite. Add garlic, cheese, or chives for extra flavor. Steamed Vegetables: Cook veggies like broccoli, carrots, or green beans until tender. They’re healthy, easy to chew, and full of holiday flavor. Soft Dinner Rolls: Skip the crusty bread and opt for soft, fluffy rolls. A dab of butter makes them even better. Cranberry Sauce: Stick to smooth, seedless versions for a tangy treat that won’t get stuck in your braces. Silky Gravy: Drizzle over turkey, potatoes, or veggies for an extra layer of comfort and flavor. Soft Stuffing: Choose recipes with moist, soft bread for a delicious, braces-friendly take on this classic dish. Foods to Avoid Certain Thanksgiving staples can wreak havoc on your braces. Skip these items to keep your smile safe: Sticky Treats: Caramel and taffy can damage brackets and wires. Crunchy Snacks: Nuts, popcorn, and hard candies pose a risk of breaking braces. Tough Meats and Bones: Avoid chewy cuts or biting into bones, as they can strain your braces. Chewing on Ice: This can put too much pressure on your brackets and wires. Sweet and Soft Favorites Looking for braces-friendly desserts and sides? These soft options will keep your taste buds and teeth happy: Pumpkin Pie: The smooth filling is a Thanksgiving classic and safe for braces. Green Bean Casserole: Tender green beans in creamy sauce are a holiday win. Turkey Gravy: A flavorful topping that’s easy on your braces. Tips for Spicy Food Lovers You can enjoy spicy food with braces, but go easy. Here’s how: Start mild and increase heat gradually. Rinse your mouth with water after eating spicy dishes to reduce lingering spice around your braces. Avoid dishes with crunchy or hard ingredients. Skip spicy foods if your mouth is sore after an adjustment. Protect Your Smile This Thanksgiving Taking care of your braces doesn’t mean skipping the holiday fun. Stick to soft, easy-to-chew options, and avoid anything sticky or crunchy. And remember, maintaining good oral hygiene is key—brush and floss thoroughly after your feast to keep your smile healthy. Need Help with Your Braces? If you have questions or concerns about your braces, schedule a free consultation with us. Our team is here to ensure you stay on track with your orthodontic journey while enjoying the holidays. Happy Thanksgiving! Enjoy every bite, knowing your braces are safe, and your smile is in good hands. If you or someone you know want a straighter smile and all the benefits that come with it, you can contact HeRo Orthodontics. We can help you achieve a healthy and vibrant smile for the whole family. Just give us a call at (972) 722-4376. Be a HeRo! Share a smile!

As the year wraps up, many people overlook their dental insurance benefits, leaving valuable coverage unused. Most dental insurance plans operate on a calendar-year basis, meaning any unused benefits vanish after December 31st. If you’ve been putting off a dental visit, now is the perfect time to prioritize your smile and make the most of your benefits. Why You Should Use Your Benefits Now Did you know that 1 in 4 adults have untreated tooth decay? Your dental health plays a vital role in your overall well-being, and dental insurance is an investment in staying healthy. Most plans cover preventive services like cleanings and exams—and even some advanced treatments like fillings or crowns. However, if you don’t use these benefits before the year ends, you lose them. For example, many insurance plans cover two cleanings a year. If you’ve only had one cleaning in 2024, schedule your second one now! Preventive care helps stop small issues—like cavities or gum disease—from becoming painful, costly problems later. What Happens If You Don’t Use Your Benefits? Unlike medical insurance, dental benefits don’t roll over to the next year. If your plan offers $1,000 of coverage annually and you’ve only used $500, the remaining $500 will be gone come January 1st, 2025. This is especially important if you have pending treatments. Taking action now ensures you don’t waste the coverage you’ve already paid for. Save More by Using Your Deductible and Annual Maximum Dental insurance plans often include a deductible (the amount you pay out-of-pocket before insurance kicks in) and an annual maximum (the most your insurance will pay in a year). If you’ve already met your deductible, now is the time to schedule treatments like fillings, crowns, or other necessary procedures. Nearing your annual maximum? Plan wisely by splitting major treatments between December and January to take advantage of two years of coverage. Tips to Maximize Your Benefits Here are a few ways to make the most of your dental insurance: Prioritize preventive care: Regular cleanings and exams are often fully covered and can save you from bigger expenses down the road. Understand your plan: Review what’s covered, especially for elective procedures like whitening or sealants. Use your FSA funds: If you have a Flexible Spending Account, use those dollars before they expire at year-end. Book your appointment early: Year-end schedules fill quickly—reserve your spot now to avoid the rush.  Don’t Wait—Schedule Your Visit Today There’s no better time to focus on your oral health. Whether it’s a cleaning, exam, or a treatment you’ve been putting off, we’re here to help you make the most of your benefits. End the year with a healthy, confident smile and start 2025 off right! If you or someone you know want a straighter smile and all the benefits that come with it, you can contact HeRo Orthodontics. We can help you achieve a healthy and vibrant smile for the whole family. Just give us a call at (972) 722-4376. Be a HeRo! Share a smile!

Hooray, it's back-to-school time! As summer fun wraps up and the school days are filled with reading, math, and science, don’t forget about your child’s dental health! Make sure your child is prepared for any orthodontic issues that might come up during the school day. At HeRo Orthodontics, we recommend putting together a small travel kit of essential orthodontic supplies for their backpack. Here’s what to include: Travel toothbrush and floss sticks: It’s crucial to keep food from getting stuck in braces or other orthodontic appliances all day. If brushing isn’t possible at school, teach your child to rinse their mouth with water after eating to help remove food and reduce sugar buildup on their teeth. Orthodontic wax: This is great for covering any wires that might start poking or causing discomfort. Mouth guard: If your child plays sports, a mouth guard that fits over braces is a must for protecting their teeth. We can create a custom one for the best fit and protection. Storage case for retainers or aligners: Make sure they have a safe place to store their retainer or clear aligners when eating. Remind your child never to wrap these in a napkin—it’s too easy to accidentally throw them away! Storing them in a pocket or backpack without a case can also cause damage. When it comes to packing school lunches, avoid gum, sticky candy, or hard foods like apples and carrots that could damage braces or other orthodontic gear. Instead, cut harder fruits and veggies into small pieces or choose softer options like bananas, oranges, or cucumber slices. For more lunch ideas, check out our blog on healthy snack options! Even during the busy school year, it’s important to stay on top of your child’s brushing and flossing routine. They should brush twice a day for two minutes each time and floss daily. Good dental habits lead to a healthy, beautiful smile! If you have any questions or need advice about helping your child with orthodontic care during the school year, feel free to reach out to HeRo Orthodontics. We’re here to help and wish all our patients and their families a fantastic school year! Like what you’re reading? Follow us on Instagram and Facebook to stay updated on the latest tips and events from our office! If you or someone you know want a straighter smile and all the benefits that come with it, you can contact HeRo Orthodontics. We can help you achieve a healthy and vibrant smile for the whole family. Just give us a call at (972) 722-4376. Be a HeRo share a smile!

At HeRo Orthodontics, we understand that traditional metal braces may not be the preferred choice for everyone, especially teens concerned about their appearance. That’s why we offer Damon Clear braces, which blend seamlessly with your natural tooth color, allowing for a more discreet treatment option. Here are 5 compelling reasons why Damon Clear braces could be an excellent choice, along with how they stack up against traditional braces and clear aligners options, like Invisalign®. 1. Natural Aesthetic Appeal Damon Clear braces are crafted from high-quality materials that mimic the clarity and color of natural teeth. Each bracket is made from a single crystal, precision-cut and polished to ensure strength and near-invisibility. This feature is particularly appealing to teens who might feel self-conscious about their smiles during these crucial years. 2. Effective Alternative to Invisalign While clear aligners options, like Invisalign® offers the benefit of being nearly invisible, it requires a high level of discipline to wear the aligners for the recommended 22 hours a day. Damon Clear braces provide a middle ground by offering the aesthetic benefits of being less noticeable while eliminating the responsibility of removable trays. This can be particularly advantageous if you anticipate your teen might struggle with the discipline required for clear aligners options, like Invisalign® 3. Non-removable Solution Damon Clear braces are bonded directly to the teeth, meaning they are working around the clock to correct your teen’s smile. Unlike clear aligners options, like Invisalign®, which can be removed and potentially forgotten, ceramic braces stay in place to continuously adjust tooth alignment. This constant pressure helps ensure the treatment stays on track and reduces the overall duration of wearing braces. 4. Continuous Treatment With Damon Clear braces, there’s no risk of losing progress because they are forgotten or not worn enough. They remain on your teen’s teeth 24/7, providing consistent treatment and minimizing the duration your child spends in braces. 5. Resists Stains Modern Damon Clear braces are designed to resist staining better than their earlier counterparts. This allows your teen to maintain a bright and confident smile even while undergoing orthodontic treatment. We ensure that any components that might stain, like the elastic ties, are changed regularly during orthodontic visits. Learn More About Ceramic Braces At HeRo Orthodontics, Damon Clear braces are just one of the many advanced options we provide to ensure comfortable, effective, and aesthetically pleasing treatment. Call us today at HeRo Orthodontics, or visit us online to schedule an appointment and learn more about how ceramic braces can benefit you or your family. If you or someone you know want a straighter smile and all the benefits that come with it, you can contact HeRo Orthodontics. We can help you achieve a healthy and vibrant smile for the whole family. Just give us a call at (972) 722-4376. Be a HeRo! Share a smile!

Patient Spotlight May 2024 - Katie

At HeRo Orthodontics, we understand the questions that can come with considering an early start to orthodontic treatment. Initiating orthodontic care at an appropriate age is not only cost-effective in the long run but also crucial for your child to achieve their healthiest and most aligned smile and bite. Here's what you need to know when considering the first orthodontic visit for your child: Does My Child Need an Orthodontist? The American Academy of Orthodontists suggests that children should visit an orthodontist by no later than age 7. This might seem early, but it allows Dr. Beaber to detect and address minor issues before they develop into significant concerns. Even if your child's teeth seem perfectly aligned, it's wise to schedule an evaluation. As your child grows, their bite and teeth alignment may change, necessitating periodic check-ups to accommodate the evolution of their jaw and the eruption of permanent teeth. What is Phase 1 Orthodontic Treatment? We typically begin orthodontic treatments around age 7, capitalizing on the growth phase of your child’s jaw. This early intervention can simplify later adjustments. For instance, Dr. Beaber might recommend a palate expander to widen your child's upper dental arch, making room for permanent teeth to come in without overcrowding. Opting for Phase 1 treatment early on can significantly reduce the time your child might spend in braces during their adolescent years—particularly beneficial for children involved in contact sports, as it lessens the risk of injuries to protruding front teeth. Advantages of Phase 1 Treatment: Increased space for emerging teeth Improved nasal airflow and healthier breathing Enhanced facial symmetry through guided jaw growth Lower risk of injury to front teeth Preserved space for future teeth Fewer tooth extractions necessary Shorter overall time spent in braces What is the Orthodontic Resting Period? After completing Phase 1, there is a resting period of one to two years before beginning Phase 2. This interval allows for the eruption of the remaining permanent teeth and further growth of the jaw. Having undergone Phase 1, your child’s teeth will be better positioned to accommodate these new teeth without the crowding that might otherwise occur. What is Phase 2 Orthodontic Treatment? Phase 2 begins once all permanent teeth have appeared. Children who have completed Phase 1 generally spend less time in braces during this phase. Beyond straightening teeth, Phase 2 treatment aims to enhance nasal breathing and improve sleep quality. Start Your Child’s Smile Journey Today At HeRo Orthodontics, we are committed to helping each child achieve their best possible smile. To discover more about our treatments and to schedule a free consultation, contact us at our Heath/Rockwall office. Let us guide your child’s journey to a healthier, more radiant smile! If you or someone you know want a straighter smile and all the benefits that come with it, you can contact HeRo Orthodontics. They can help you achieve a healthy and vibrant smile for the whole family. Just give them a call at (972) 722-4376. Be a HeRo share a smile!

At HeRo Orthodontics, we understand that traditional metal braces may not be the preferred choice for everyone, especially teens concerned about their appearance. That’s why we offer Damon Clear braces, which blend seamlessly with your natural tooth color, allowing for a more discreet treatment option. Here are 5 compelling reasons why Damon Clear braces could be an excellent choice, along with how they stack up against traditional braces and clear aligners options, like Invisalign®: 1. Natural Aesthetic Appeal Damon Clear braces are crafted from high-quality materials that mimic the clarity and color of natural teeth. Each bracket is made from a single crystal, precision-cut and polished to ensure strength and near-invisibility. This feature is particularly appealing to teens who might feel self-conscious about their smiles during these crucial years. 2. Effective Alternative to Invisalign While clear aligners options, like Invisalign® offers the benefit of being nearly invisible, it requires a high level of discipline to wear the aligners for the recommended 22 hours a day. Damon Clear braces provide a middle ground by offering the aesthetic benefits of being less noticeable while eliminating the responsibility of removable trays. This can be particularly advantageous if you anticipate your teen might struggle with the discipline required for clear aligners options, like Invisalign® 3. Non-removable Solution Damon Clear braces are bonded directly to the teeth, meaning they are working around the clock to correct your teen’s smile. Unlike clear aligners options, like Invisalign®, which can be removed and potentially forgotten, ceramic braces stay in place to continuously adjust tooth alignment. This constant pressure helps ensure the treatment stays on track and reduces the overall duration of wearing braces. 4. Continuous Treatment With Damon Clear braces, there’s no risk of losing progress because they are forgotten or not worn enough. They remain on your teen’s teeth 24/7, providing consistent treatment and minimizing the duration your child spends in braces. 5. Resists Stains Modern Damon Clear braces are designed to resist staining better than their earlier counterparts. This allows your teen to maintain a bright and confident smile even while undergoing orthodontic treatment. We ensure that any components that might stain, like the elastic ties, are changed regularly during orthodontic visits. Learn More About Ceramic Braces At HeRo Orthodontics, Damon Clear braces are just one of the many advanced options we provide to ensure comfortable, effective, and aesthetically pleasing treatment. Call us today at HeRo Orthodontics, or visit us online to schedule an appointment and learn more about how ceramic braces can benefit you or your family. If you or someone you know want a straighter smile and all the benefits that come with it, you can contact HeRo Orthodontics. They can help you achieve a healthy and vibrant smile for the whole family. Just give them a call at (972) 722-4376. Be a HeRo share a smile!

Patient Spotlight March 2024 - Starr

At HeRo Orthodontics, we understand that the health of your child is paramount. Lately, many parents, particularly mothers who are deeply invested in the well-being of their children, have brought up concerns about tongue ties. As such, it's important to address this topic thoroughly, backed by the latest findings in head and neck anatomy and physiology. What is the Lingual Frenulum? The lingual frenulum is a thin band of tissue that connects the underside of the tongue to the floor of the mouth. Visible when the tongue is lifted, this structure is a normal part of the mouth’s anatomy, present from birth. It plays a crucial role in oral functions such as speech and swallowing. Defining Tongue Tie Medically termed ankyloglossia, a tongue tie occurs when the lingual frenulum is unusually tight or thick, which can restrict the movement of the tongue. This condition is characterized not by the visibility of the frenulum but by the functional limitations it imposes. It's important to dispel myths such as the existence of a 'hidden band' or 'string' causing tongue tie; these are not scientifically supported. Diagnosing Tongue Tie While the attachment point of the frenulum is a diagnostic criterion, it is not the sole factor to consider. The overall thickness of the tissue, muscle tone, and nerve function also influence tongue mobility. At HeRo Orthodontics, we take a comprehensive approach to diagnosis, considering all these factors to ensure accurate assessments. Causes and Prevalence of Tongue Tie The exact causes of tongue tie can be varied and are not always clear. However, studies indicate that its prevalence in the general population can range from 2.8% to 10.7%. Increased awareness about the benefits of breastfeeding and the availability of corrective procedures like frenotomies have made this a focus of recent healthcare discussions. Insights from the Latest Consensus Statement According to the American Association of Otolaryngologists and recent studies: 1. The lingual frenulum is a normal anatomical feature. 2. It varies in size and shape among individuals. 3. Tongue tie is defined by limited tongue movement due to a tight frenulum. 4. Only a minority of individuals experience significant issues from tongue ties. 5. Surgical intervention, such as frenotomy, is not always necessary and should be considered carefully. Our Holistic Approach At HeRo Orthodontics, we prioritize a holistic approach to treatment, considering not only the physical aspects of tongue ties but also the emotional and psychological well-being of your child and family. We understand the concerns of cautious parents and are here to provide clear, evidence-based information and support.  For more information or to discuss your child’s needs, please don’t hesitate to contact us for a complimentary exam. Our team, led by Dr. William Beaber, is dedicated to providing expert care in a compassionate environment. Contact us at (972) 722-4376. If you or someone you know want a straighter smile and all the benefits that come with it, you can contact HeRo Orthodontics. They can help you achieve a healthy and vibrant smile for the whole family. Just give them a call at (972) 722-4376. Be a HeRo share a smile!